Tigers’ Nathan on the DL

The Tigers have placed relief pitcher Joe Nathan on the 15 day disabled list.

(Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)

Nathan, who got the save in Monday's Opening Day win over Minnesota, has been sidelined with a right elbow flexor strain. Tigers' President and GM Dave Dombrowski told reporters that Joakim Soria will take Nathan's spot as closer and that Detroit has recalled reliever Blaine Hardy from the Mud Hens to fill in the bullpen. Earlier, the Tigers put Justin Verlander on the 15 day disabled list and called up left-hander Kyle Lobstein fromToledoto start in his place Sunday againstCleveland. Manager Brad Ausmus said that the team will not start Verlander until he's 100-percent.